The Workforce Link Podcast

Central Workforce Development Board

5.0 (2)
CAREERS
UPDATED WEEKLY

Hosted by Sundi Jo Graham of the Central Workforce Development Board, The Workforce Link offers discussions on job searching; resume and interview tips; leadership lessons; personal development; and interviews with industry leaders in both the private and public sector. Missouri's top podcast for all things workforce related.

11/19/2025

The Brain Science Behind Getting Things Done at Work

Why do some people always get things done—and how can the rest of us build those same habits? In this episode, host Sundi Jo breaks down the brain science behind accountability, drawing from research featured in Fast Company. We explore three cognitive habits that help employees stay motivated, communicate clearly, and take ownership of their work. You’ll learn how syncing expectations supports trust, why purpose fuels stronger performance, and how a growth mindset helps teams improve over time. Whether you’re leading a team, developing your career, or supporting workforce programs, this episode offers practical tools to help Missouri’s workforce thrive. Links in This Episode: 3 Cognitive Habits of People Who Get Things Done The free-energy principle: a unified brain theory? Predictive Reward Signal of Dopamine Neurons How to Find Your Why Mindset: The New Psychology of Success Employer Services Job Centers

14 min
10/28/2025

Career Shifts: When to Move On and How to Do It Well

Thinking about making a career change but not sure if it's the right time—or where to even start? In this episode of The Workforce Link Podcast, Sundi Jo explores what it means to pivot in your career with purpose and confidence. You’ll learn how to recognize the signs it’s time to shift, how to prepare for the transition, and what small steps you can take right now to move toward the future you want. ✅ We talk about: The power of listening to “the whisper” for more How to know if it’s really time to move on What to do if fear is holding you back Practical steps to take before quitting your job Identifying your transferable skills Building your network (and how to start!) The importance of a growth mindset Why your WHY matters—and how to find it Key takeaway: A pivot isn’t about running away. It’s about running toward who you’re becoming. Links in this Episode: Episode 48 - Elevating Your Career Through the Power of NetworkingEpisode 1 - How to Find Your WhyHow to Find Your Why PDF

17 min
09/30/2025

AI, Automation, and the Future of Work: How Technology Is Changing Jobs

What does the rise of AI and automation really mean for your career—or your workforce? In this episode of The Workforce Link Podcast, host Sundi Jo Graham explores how technology is reshaping the world of work—and how you can adapt without fear. From job seekers wondering if AI will take their job to employers navigating team training and upskilling, we break down the facts, debunk the myths, and highlight the human skills that still matter most. You’ll learn: ✅ What major reports from Goldman Sachs, McKinsey, and the World Economic Forum say about AI and job transformation ✅ Why soft skills like creativity, empathy, and critical thinking are more valuable than ever ✅ How job seekers and employers can stay ahead through training, curiosity, and a growth mindset ✅ What Missouri manufacturers are doing to bridge the skills gap with cross-generational mentorship ✅ How to access free job training and workforce resources through the Central Region Job Centers Whether you’re preparing for a career pivot or leading a team into the future, this episode offers insight, encouragement, and practical tools to help you thrive. Links in This Episode: The Potentially Large Effects of AI on Economic GrowthThe Future of Jobs Report 2020The Future of Work in America: People and Places, Today and TomorrowWorkplace Learning 2025Job Center ServicesEmployer Services

20 min
09/11/2025

How Stacy Learned to Break the Cycle

After spending over 20 years in prison, Stacy Dismang Wright walked out with more than a second chance—she walked out with purpose. In this raw and powerful conversation, Stacy shares how her journey through addiction, incarceration, and recovery led her to a new calling: helping others break the same destructive cycles she once lived in. Now a peer specialist at Lane Change, a no-cost recovery center in Missouri, Stacy is proof that long-term recovery is possible—and that transformation doesn’t stop with one person. From panic attacks in the living room to mentoring clients facing their own battles, Stacy’s story is full of grit, grace, and redemption. You’ll hear how the On-the-Job Training program through workforce development played a vital role in her transition, and how her work is now changing lives every single day. If you’ve ever wondered whether people really change—this episode is your answer. Links in This Episode: Work-Based Learning Lane Change

28 min
08/28/2025

Breaking into a New Industry (Without the Experience to Match)

Ready to switch careers but lack experience? In this episode, Sundi Jo shares a smarter strategy than applying to 100 jobs: building authentic connections through informational interviews. Learn how to identify target companies, reach out the right way, and land real opportunities—even without a perfect résumé. Links in Today’s Episode: ⁠ Episode 27: How to Upgrade Your LinkedIn Profile to Get the Job You Want Hunter.io for email research Work-Based Learning Central Workforce Development Board, Inc. and COPIC are equal-opportunity employers/programs. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Missouri Relay Services at 711.

18 min
04/25/2024

Find The Work You're Wired To Do with Ken Coleman

Do we ever ask ourselves this question? “What was I born to do?” We talk about finding our why a lot on this podcast, which fits into the question, “What was I born to do?” In order to answer that question, we need to assess our lives, our careers, etc, a bit deeper. I always love a good assessment. In Ken’s new book, Find the Work You're Wired to Do, he helps you get to the heart of who you are and how you’re wired. Once you have a clear picture of the type of work you do best, Ken will show you how to use your results to get specific in your job search, grow in your career, and make more money doing work you enjoy. Sundi Jo took the assessment herself and we’ll dive into it a little bit together in this episode. We're excited to have him back on The Workforce Link today, so let’s get to it. Here’s Sundi Jo's interview with Ken Coleman on how to find the work you’re wired to do. Links in Today’s Episode: Get Clear Career Assessment Find the Work You’re Wired to Do Book Ken Coleman Website Central Region Job Centers Central Workforce Development Board, Inc. and COPIC are equal-opportunity employers/programs. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Missouri Relay Services at 711.

51 min
04/18/2024

6 Ways Leaders Can Prevent Imposter Syndrome in the Workplace

A couple of episodes ago, we reviewed an article from Asana on how to overcome imposter syndrome in the workplace. See the link below. We discussed the characteristics of imposter syndrome, the 5 types, and the 9 ways to overcome it. In this episode we'll focus on another part of the article - the six ways managers can prevent imposter syndrome. If you manage a team, you want to support them and reduce the chances of experiencing imposter syndrome. Links in Today’s Episode: How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome on the Job Imposter Syndrome Asana Article Central Region Job Centers 5 Ways to Find a Mentor Central Workforce Development Board, Inc. and COPIC are equal-opportunity employers/programs. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Missouri Relay Services at 711.

11 min
04/11/2024

Becoming the Change: The Power of Cultural Intelligence with Loren Rosario-Maldonado

In a world full of chaos, it can be really hard to keep a positive mindset in our lives and our jobs. We’re surrounded by constant negativity - when you turn the tv on, the radio, etc. And the habits we create determine our moods, too. Have you ever wondered how to truly connect with people from different backgrounds? What if the key to unlocking greater self-awareness and better relationships lies in understanding the cultures that shape us? We’re going to explore the concepts of cultural intelligence with author Loren Rosario-Maldonado. In her latest book, Becoming the Change: The Power of Cultural Intelligence, Loren explores how embracing cultural intelligence can lead to self-discovery. Drawing from her multicultural experiences and extensive research, she offers a unique and insightful perspective on how cultural intelligence can unlock personal growth and a deeper understanding of oneself and the world. Links in Today’s Episode: Loren’s Website Becoming the Change book Employer Services Central Region Job Centers Central Workforce Development Board, Inc. and COPIC are equal-opportunity employers/programs. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Missouri Relay Services at 711.

37 min

5

out of 5

2 Ratings

Hosted by Sundi Jo Graham of the Central Workforce Development Board, The Workforce Link offers discussions on job searching; resume and interview tips; leadership lessons; personal development; and interviews with industry leaders in both the private and public sector. Missouri's top podcast for all things workforce related.

Creator

Central Workforce Development Board
Years Active

2021 - 2025
Episodes

78
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© Central Workforce Development Board
Show Website

The Workforce Link Podcast